Course Meets: 4:00 - 5:15 TR WH 114
This course is designed to introduce students with little or no background in Turkish studies to the rich
and varied cultures of Turkey, from Ottoman times to the present. After briefly touching upon the
general history of Anatolian "Turks," we will study the social, economic and political structures of
Ottoman and Turkish Anatolia, the language(s) and the many artistic traditions of the Anatolian peoples.
How different was the literary language of the Ottoman elite from the language which has been spoken
by the Anatolian peoples for centuries? What was the social status of Turkish women during the
Ottoman Empire? What changes took place after the emergence of Modern Turkey? Along with these
questions, we will deal with other significant topics: literacy/illiteracy in Turkish society; the secular
enterprise of Kemal Ataturk; the revival of Islamic fundamentalism; Turkish educational institution; the
emergence of Kurdish nationalism, and how all of these are reflected in the artistic creations of the
Turkish people. In addition to the assigned readings, Turkish films and other visual materials will be
used to familiarize students with the historical, artistic and political structure of Anatolian/Turkish
society. Grades will be based upon attendance and class participation, a short paper, midterm and final
exams.